ASX share price slips following first female CEO appointment

ASX shares have come under pressure despite the company's management update.

| More on:
A young woman sits at her desk in deep contemplation with her hand to her chin while seriously considering information she is reading on her laptop

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points

  • ASX shares are edging 1.61% lower to $80.12
  • The company this morning announced the appointment of its first ever female CEO to lead the team 
  • Helen Lofthouse will take over from outgoing CEO Dominic Stevens, who has decided to retire on 30 September 2022 

The ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX) share price is in the red during trade on Thursday.

This comes after the company announced the appointment of its first female CEO.

At the time of writing, the stock exchange operator's shares are down 1.61% to $80.12 apiece.

ASX welcomes first female CEO

Prior to market open, ASX revealed that Helen Lofthouse would take over the role as managing director and CEO.

Outgoing CEO Dominic Stevens will continue to hold the top position until 31 July 2022. He will remain in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition before retiring on 30 September 2022.

Ms Lofthouse is currently ASX's Group Executive Markets which is its largest business by revenue. Her responsibilities include cash and derivatives trading, including equities, interest rates, commodities and energy products, and the benchmark's business and international sales.

Ms Lofthouse joined ASX in September 2015 as a member of the executive leadership team.

An accomplished financial markets executive with more than 20 years of experience in cash equity and debt markets, Lofthouse will become the company's first female CEO.

It marks a milestone move for ASX as an increasing number of women are beginning to take the helm.

Prior to joining ASX, Ms Lofthouse was based in London where she was a managing director at UBS.

Before that she worked in various senior roles at JPMorgan.

Commenting on the move, ASX chair Damian Roche said:

Given the high calibre of experienced candidates attracted to the position, we are delighted that the outstanding choice to lead ASX as its new CEO comes from within the organisation.

It is testament to Helen's qualities and highlights the strength within ASX's executive ranks. It also reflects the Board's confidence in the strategy and performance of the company in recent years.

We look forward to the fresh ideas and enthusiasm Helen will bring to the role as our new CEO. Her appointment ensures a smooth and orderly CEO transition. ASX's exciting future is in strong and capable hands.

ASX share price snapshot

The past 12 months have been a wild ride for investors, with the ASX share price up more than 4.5%.

Year-to-date, its losses are hovering at almost 14%.

Based on the current share price, ASX commands a market capitalisation of around $15.51 billion.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Financial Shares

Man smiling at a laptop because of a rising share price.
Financial Shares

Up 41% since August, why this ASX All Ords stock could attract more interest in 2025

A leading fund manager has high hopes for this ASX All Ords stock in 2025.

Read more »

Man with rocket wings which have flames coming out of them.
Share Gainers

Guess which ASX All Ords stock just rocketed 44%

Investors are sending the ASX All Ords stock racing higher today. But why?

Read more »

A man stands with his arms crossed in an X shape.
Financial Shares

No deal! Why this ASX 200 stock is falling today

Bain Capital won't be taking this stock private for just $4.00 per share.

Read more »

A man holds his hand under his chin as he concentrates on his laptop screen and reads about the ANZ share price
Financial Shares

ASX 200 financial stock's $2.2 billion private equity deal in serious doubt

The deal has been dealt another blow.

Read more »

A woman sits at her computer with her hand to her mouth and a contemplative smile on her face as she reads about the performance of Allkem shares on her computer
Financial Shares

Are IAG shares expected to have another strong year in 2025?

Can this large stock ensure another strong return next year?

Read more »

Modern accountant woman in a light business suit in modern green office with documents and laptop.
Financial Shares

Top broker says buy this 'compelling' ASX 300 dividend stock now

This under-the-radar stock could be a strong contender for passive income.

Read more »

Businessman studying a high technology holographic stock market chart.
Financial Shares

Could 2025 be an even better year for AMP shares after a 70% rise in 2024?

Can AMP deliver electric returns again in 2025?

Read more »

a woman drawing image on wall of big fish about to eat a small fish
Financial Shares

Guess which ASX 200 share just received a $2.68b takeover offer

Private equity firm Bain Capital has its eyes on this financial services company.

Read more »